Marine Biology (Including Foundation Year)

What is the BSc (Hons) Marine Biology (including Foundation Year)?

The BSc (Hons) Marine Biology (including Foundation Year) is a four-year degree.

You’ll become a well-rounded marine scientist with a strong knowledge across the spectrum of marine biology and ecology.

If you don’t yet meet the entry requirements for the three-year version, starting the course with a Foundation Year gives you a supported step up to university study.

Why this course

The BSc (Hons) Marine Biology (including Foundation Year) lets you explore marine biology at all scales, from our on-campus aquaria, to local estuaries and ecosystems, to whole ocean systems on the other side of the planet.

Year Zero prepares you with the skills and confidence needed to progress into your first year and continue on to a full undergraduate degree programme.

From Year One, you’ll be able to explore our academic staff’s own areas of research such as coral reef conservation, fisheries management, animal behaviour, marine biotechnology and microbiology.

With a practical approach to learning, you’ll gain key scientific skills such as data analysis and interpretation, literature, research and presentation skills. You’ll visit local sites with rich diversity and interact with organisations such as the Essex Wildlife Trust, the Environment Agency and Colchester Oyster Fisheries.

You’ll also have the opportunity to embark on residential trips to Scotland, Greece and Indonesia, learning to dive and participating in unique underwater research surveys and lectures.

You’ll graduate on the path to a marine science or ecology career, ready to help resolve the increasing environmental issues across the world.

Who should apply

• Future marine biologists and ecologists

• Those wanting to further our modern understanding of life below water

• Students eager to support and improve marine life and environments

• Practical learners wanting hands-on experience

Course Modules

Many of our courses offer a choice of optional modules to tailor your learning experience. More information about these can be found on the University of Essex website.